What does "aspiration" refer to in the context of speech?

In the context of speech, "aspiration" refers to a puff of air that is released when certain sounds are pronounced, particularly voiceless plosive consonants like /p/, /t/, and /k/. This extra breathy sound occurs when the vocal cords are not vibrating, allowing for a burst of air to follow the release of the consonant. Aspiration can significantly affect the clarity and perceptibility of speech and is a notable feature in many languages.

Understanding aspiration is crucial for speech therapy and language instruction, as it impacts both pronunciation and comprehension in spoken language. For example, in English, the initial sounds in "pat," "tea," and "cat" are aspirated, which is different from their unaspirated counterparts in words like "spat," "straw," and "skit." Recognizing these differences can help therapists and educators teach correct pronunciation and enhance listening skills in learners.